English vocabulary · C1
Emulate
/ˈɛm.jə.leɪt/ · v.
It means to copy someone you admire, because you want to be as good as that person, or even better.
Watch the Emulate lessonContinue in the learning app for video lessons and review.
Example sentences
- She emulated her coach to become a top runner.
- He emulated his mentor and then did even better.
Word origin and roots
from Latin
- aemul — rival (from Latin)
Synonyms and nuances
- IMITATE (copying actions or behavior)
- MIRROR (reflecting another's style exactly)
- COPY (reproducing something closely)
Lesson notes
Emulate. It means to copy someone you admire, because you want to be as good as that person, or even better.
Similar words are imitate, mirror, and copy. Use emulate when you want to match or beat someone you look up to.
She emulated her coach to become a top runner. He emulated his mentor and then did even better.
From Latin. Aemul means rival. To emulate is to study a rival so closely you become just as good. That is emulate.